Meaning & Definition of word "Illegal"
Illegal
/ɪˈliːɡəl/
adjective:
- 1. Not allowed by law; unlawful.
- Example: The sale of alcohol to minors is illegal in most countries.
- 2. Contrary to or forbidden by law.
- Example: He was arrested for illegal possession of firearms.
- 3. Not authorized by law or regulations.
- Example: They were operating an illegal gambling ring.
- 4. Not in accordance with the rules or regulations of a given system.
- Example: The plaintiff filed a suit over illegal dismissal from her job.
Etymology
●From Latin 'illēgālis', from 'in-' meaning not, and 'lēx' meaning law.
Common Phrases and Expressions
illegal activity:
Any action that is against the law.
illegal immigrant:
A person residing in a country without official permission.
illegal download:
The act of downloading content without authorization.
Related Words
lawful:
In accordance with the law.
forbidden:
Not allowed; prohibited.
contraband:
Goods that are illegal to import or export.
Slang Meanings of illegal
Meaning: On the down-low
● Example Sentence: He's doing it on the down-low, so it's a bit illegal.
Meaning: Off the books
● Example Sentence: She's getting paid off the books, which is illegal.